Mr. Couture Earns Re-election

Our Towns

Vote Nov. 8

Bristol

October 27, 2005

What a difference two years makes. In 2003, Republican William T. Stortz and Democrat Gerard J. Couture vied for the job of mayor of Bristol. The Courant endorsed Mr. Stortz, citing his abundance of ideas for improving downtown. Voters elected Mr. Couture.

This year, Mr. Couture, 64, and Mr. Stortz, 69, are squaring off once again. Yet time has proved the wisdom of the voters.

Mr. Couture's leadership has been decisive, even bold. Most significantly, Mr. Couture's administration initiated a city purchase of the languishing Mall at Bristol Centre property and devised an ambitious $65 million development plan for getting the heart of downtown pumping once again.

The plan, still a work in progress, is being reviewed for possible funding by the state Department of Economic and Community Development. Residents may disagree with aspects of the plan, but there can be no disputing that the downtown needs a bold stroke like this one. As a result, for the first time in a long time there is passionate debate about downtown and a genuine sense of its possibilities.

After five years of no tax increases, Mr. Couture knew responsible leadership called for a tax hike. Last year, it was a 1.9-mill increase; this year, the rate rose by a half-mill.

Mr. Couture made more funding for Bristol schools a priority. Staffing in the police and fire departments has increased. North Main Street is prettier and safer. Parks have been improved, municipal services are being maintained, and the city's high bond rating -- the currency for growth -- is intact.

It's an impressive performance. Although Mr. Couture's Republican opponent, Mr. Stortz, offers considerable experience, including 2 1/2 years as mayor and five terms on the city council, his proposals seem only second-guessing beside Mr. Couture's genuine accomplishments.